Ok Sparty, here's 2 cents from a record holding weight lifter.
Of course that was in 1977/78 or so. Not official because I didn't
attend the Nationals Since I was steroid free. And back then the
top 5 in my class nationally were not. I lifted in the 148's then,
and benched 330, squatted 600, deadlifted 650.
I've torn a few muscles:)
I also did gymnastics and one of the fellows I trained a bit with was a high Diver,
he completely tore his pecs from his sternum on a dive. Seems going into the
water a diver could reach out and grab the water and pull himself in for less
entry splash. His arms spun backwards ripping his chest lose. By the time I worked out
with him he was pretty well recovered.
Anyway, you will recover. Sometimes hospital physical therapy is not the best however.
If I was you, I'd listen to the docs about the recovery time needed after they
sew you back up then come up with a weight lifting program that targets your
injury. Light weight curls to start coupled with light weigh flys (real light weights).
You should also incorperate bench press which will help you sitting on
your bike for long rides. Again, light weights.
Don't even start with the weights until you have comfortably regained your complete range
of motion through isometric exercises.
I'm no expert but all the above has worked for me in similar circumstances.
Hope you have a speedy recovery and don't count yourself out on the
Bike for the summer yet!
